Emily VanCamp initially pursued a career in dance, but her remarkable talent in acting has defined her career trajectory. VanCamp began taking dance lessons at the tender age of three, immersing herself in tap, jazz, and ballet. However, her interest in acting blossomed during her childhood, steering her towards an entirely different professional path.
While she featured in a few childhood television roles, including guest appearances in shows like Are You Afraid of the Dark and Radio Active, her breakthrough moment came when she played a teenager on the WB network. Her portrayal of Amy Abbott in Everwood opened many doors for her in the entertainment industry. Since then, she has made notable contributions to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, starred in medical dramas, and taken on roles in independent films, showcasing a diverse range of talents that span both classic teen roles and contemporary projects.
10 Glory Days (2002)
Emily VanCamp as Sam Dolan
Created by the famed Kevin Williamson—known for Dawson’s Creek and Scream—Glory Days was envisioned as the next big teen drama for the WB. Combining dramatic, soapy threads with mysterious elements, the series followed Eddie Cahill’s character, Eddie, who returns to his hometown to confront his past and unravel strange occurrences.
In this series, VanCamp plays Sam Dolan, the teenage sister of Cahill’s character. Although her storylines echo high school melodrama, she experiences darker moments, including being kidnapped. This role allowed her to dip into thriller territory early in her career, underscoring her potential as an actress. Sadly, Glory Days was short-lived, canceled after just one season.
9 Miranda’s Victim (2023)
Emily VanCamp as Ann Weir
Set against a backdrop of real events, Miranda’s Victim centers on the landmark case that established the Miranda Warning. Abigail Breslin stars as Trish Weir, a young woman who faces the harrowing aftermath of a kidnapping. Despite her abductor being convicted, the case is reopened due to procedural issues surrounding his interactions with law enforcement.
This poignant narrative features powerful performances, especially from Luke Wilson and Ryan Phillippe as opposing attorneys, along with Breslin’s emotionally intense portrayal. VanCamp, alongside Mireille Enos, provides a poignant depth to the film as the supportive Weir family member. Her performance adds significant weight to an ensemble filled with formidable actors.
8 Everwood (2002-2006)
Emily VanCamp as Amy Abbott
Everwood remains one of the standout shows defining the early phase of VanCamp’s career. The narrative revolves around Dr. Andrew Brown (Treat Williams) who relocates his family to the idyllic town of Everwood after the death of his wife. While it predominantly focuses on family dynamics, it also explores rich adolescent storylines representative of CW’s dramatic essence.
VanCamp portrays Amy Abbott, the doctor’s daughter, navigating her friendships with newcomers while grappling with complex issues surrounding her boyfriend’s coma. Although her arcs didn’t often yield the most dramatic emotional payoffs, VanCamp portrayed a character evolving through challenges, notably dealing with changes in her former lover.
7 Beyond The Blackboard (2011)
Emily VanCamp as Stacey Bess
In Beyond the Blackboard, VanCamp reunites with her former co-star Treat Williams for a Hallmark adaptation based on Stacey Bess’ memoir about teaching. The film depicts her character overcoming biases while educating unhoused youth at an unnamed school, and Williams portrays one of her supportive colleagues.
6 Brothers & Sisters (2007-2010)
Emily VanCamp as Rebecca Harper
Transitioning straight from one family drama to another, VanCamp starred in Brothers & Sisters, which chronicles the dynamics of the Walker family following their patriarch’s death.
Initially believed to be a part of the Walker family, Rebecca’s status takes a twist as her connection to the family unfolds, especially when she starts dating one of the brothers. Moving beyond her previous typecasting as the typical “girl next door,” VanCamp’s portrayal showcases a character with layers, displaying a rebellious edge that brings freshness to her story.
5 Captain America: Civil War (2016)
Emily VanCamp as Sharon Carter
Captain America: Civil War offers an adaptation of the significant Marvel comic event, diving into the Avengers’ ideological split regarding governmental oversight. Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) and Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) navigate a larger conflict revolving around Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan).
In her second MCU appearance, VanCamp’s character, Sharon Carter, faces puzzlement among some fans as her history becomes entwined with that of Steve, who discovers her family ties to Peggy Carter. Despite being amidst spectacular action sequences and character developments, VanCamp successfully captures Sharon’s skills as a SHIELD agent, delivering a performance filled with charm and wit, even if her character is somewhat overshadowed.
4 The Falcon and The Winter Soldier (2021)
Emily VanCamp as Sharon Carter
Returning after a lengthy absence, Sharon Carter re-emerges in the Disney+ series The Falcon and The Winter Soldier. The plot follows Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) and Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) grappling with their identities following Sam’s ascension to Captain America.
VanCamp’s character takes a darker turn as it’s revealed she has been living as a fugitive since the events of Civil War, ultimately becoming the “Power Broker” who profits from governmental secrets. This character evolution allows VanCamp to explore a morally ambiguous persona, presenting a nuanced narrative arc that contrasts with her historical heroism, leaving audiences eager for her potential return to the MCU. Additionally, she provides the voice for an animated iteration of Sharon Carter in Marvel’s What If series.
3 The Resident (2018-2022)
Emily VanCamp as Nicolette ‘Nic’ Nevin
In a saturated genre of medical dramas, The Resident carved out its niche, spanning six seasons before its conclusion. VanCamp portrayed Nicolette “Nic” Nevin, a nurse dealing with the complexities of a bustling hospital alongside titular character Matt Czuchry.
The show delves into Nic’s journey through various emotional arcs, from managing her sister’s substance addiction to reconciling with her estranged father, all while reigniting her romance with Matt’s character. Her nuanced performance underscores the depth of her character, reflecting her growth and evolution as an actress.
2 Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
Emily VanCamp as Sharon Carter
VanCamp’s debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe remains one of her highlights. In Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Steve Rogers finds himself in untrustworthy territory as he discovers Hydra’s extensive infiltration in SHIELD.
VanCamp skillfully embodies two facets of Sharon; portraying her as Steve’s unsuspecting neighbor before revealing her as a covert SHIELD agent assigned to safeguard him. Her duality adds richness to her character, contributing to an engaging narrative. Key moments include her unveiling as a hidden ally and her tense stand-off with Hydra, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of her role in the MCU.
1 Revenge (2011-2015)
Emily VanCamp as Emily Thorne/Amanda Clarke
Although not her official career-launching role, Revenge undoubtedly shines as a pinnacle moment for VanCamp. The show, celebrated for its gripping narrative, emphasizes her evolution as an actress, marking her first leading role within an ensemble.
Taking inspiration from The Count of Monte Cristo, VanCamp portrays Amanda Clarke, a woman on a relentless quest for vengeance against those who wronged her family. Through clever plotting and strategic infiltration, she navigates elite circles in The Hamptons.
VanCamp delivers her most compelling performance in this series, mastering the art of capturing vulnerability juxtaposed with calculated coldness. Revenge requires its lead to maintain an aura of secrecy while meticulously unveiling her plan, rendering it a showcase of VanCamp’s broad acting range and captivating storytelling ability.
As Emily VanCamp continues to carve her niche in the entertainment industry, it is clear that Revenge remains her most iconic television role to date.